I have given some thought lately to the type of writing that makes me want to write. There are a number of factors to consider but I suppose I am pushed into writing at times by other writers and the way they kick me in the gut.

It is not always a positive influence, I sometimes wonder why some writers rely so heavily on cliche, especially in relation to narrative. When I read 'it was a dark night,' or 'she awoke with a start,' for example, I find it difficult not to discard the story, article or whatever else it happens to be.

On my 'reading' page, I have named writers who drive me to write. They are all individuals who create humour through an imaginitive use of language. Joe R. Lansdale writes dialogue as well as anyone I have ever read, as does Jim Dodge. Both also build characters, even minor characters that you feel could easily carry the plot alone.

At times, I have been told by people that they feel they have a good book in them - the oldest cliche there is, relative to fiction writing. Without exception, if the person who tells me this is not a reader, I dismiss it out of hand. I find it incredible that such a high number of people seem to think that all you have to do to write a book is turn up, sit down and hold a pen.

I think it is probably indicative of the way that celebrity culture now means 'famous for nothing.' Even if that nothing happens to be a ghost written novel or an extremly badly written example of something that even a vanity publisher would consider beneath them.

In short, if you want to write - read. Read as much as you can stomach and when you are not writing, read some more.I am no expert and I consider myself to be learning all the time. I have enthusiasm, passion and a lifetime's worth of reading to help me out. I hope that provides a decent platform. I hope it sets me apart from the current fad for celebrity written dross.